Hossein Hosseini, Esteghlal FC's top-performing goalkeeper, faces an unexpected departure from the club due to growing security pressures in Iranian football.
The Iranian news website Tabnak reports that Hosseini's exit stems not from his performance or financial issues, but from an April incident involving a female fan.
During a match, a woman without a hijab breached security and approached Hosseini on the field.
Despite security's efforts, she reached the goalkeeper, who briefly hugged her to calm the situation. Security swiftly removed both from the field.
The incident led to disciplinary action against Hosseini.
The federation's committee deemed his actions "unprofessional and beyond the legal duties of a player," resulting in a fine of three billion rials ($4,500) and a one-match suspension.
Hosseini's performance in the 2023-2024 season was stellar.
He kept 18 clean sheets in 29 games, conceded only 15 goals, and blocked 2 penalty kicks.
His 62 per cent success rate earned him the title of the best goalkeeper in the Iranian Premier League's 23rd season.
Despite these achievements, Esteghlal has decided not to keep Hosseini.
Iranian media attribute this decision to the hugging incident, highlighting the increasing influence of security institutions in Iranian football.
He has also been removed from Iran's national football team.
Interested in writing for IranWire?
Share your stories.
comments